Community Input Needed to Update Town’s Housing Production Plan 

Source: amherstma.gov

The Town of Amherst is updating its Housing Production Plan (HPP) which will chart a path toward addressing the affordable housing needs of low- and moderate-income people in Amherst. The HPP, last updated in 2013, will include data about who needs housing and what options currently exist, identify goals for different housing types, and name strategies Amherst might pursue to strengthen affordable housing opportunities.   

The town has engaged Barrett Planning Group to conduct demographic, housing, and market research; engage Amherst residents and others in developing the plan; identify housing types needed in Amherst; and consider various approaches to secure affordable housing for all residents. 

The town and Barrett Planning Group are hosting the first Town-wide HPP Community Meeting on Tuesday, October 1st . There are two sessions being offered which will each include a brief presentation about the HPP process and an opportunity for attendees to share their hopes and vision for the future of housing opportunities in Amherst. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend these events. 

Session A: Tuesday, October 1 at 2:00 – 3:30 p.m., Woodbury Room at Jones Library (43 Amity Street, Amherst, MA 01002) 

Session B: Tuesday, October 1 at 6:00 – 7:30 p.m, Woodbury Room at Jones Library (43 Amity Street, Amherst, MA 01002) 

Those interested in attending can RSVP here: https://forms.gle/rtc9T5zX3fAY3KvF8

Future opportunities for community input will include an online public survey, a second community meeting, and focus groups with stakeholders. 

The purpose of a Housing Production Plan (HPP) is to facilitate the development and preservation of housing that meets the requirements of the state’s affordable housing law, commonly known as Chapter 40B. The Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (HLC) regulates HPPs, which are required to receive local adoption by the Planning Board and Select Board before submission to HLC for approval. HPPs have three essential elements including: 1) Comprehensive Housing Needs Assessment, 2) Affordable Housing Goals, and 3) Implementation Strategies. Learn more about Chapter 40B Housing Production Plans.

For questions or more information, please contact Associate Planner/Housing Coordinator Greg Richane at richaneg@amherstma.gov or 413-259-3048.